Illinois Policy Institute CEO John Tillman released the following statement in response to Gov. Bruce Rauner’s State of the State address, delivered today:

“Today represents a turning point for the state of Illinois. For the first time in a decade, an Illinois governor has offered a candid assessment of the state’s poor economic health and the quality of life available to Illinois residents. Gov. Rauner echoed what the Illinois Policy Institute has highlighted for years: Illinois is in a world of hurt. 

“Since the recession, Illinois has had the worst economic recovery in the nation. Our state has the second-highest property taxes in the nation, making it tough for people to keep their homes. And we have a school system that forces children to attend a school based on their home address – not their individual needs. People have fled our state in search of jobs and a higher quality of life. Entrepreneurs can’t pursue their dreams here because Illinois has the highest business startup fees in the Midwest. Companies can’t flourish because Illinois has the highest unemployment insurance and workers’ compensation costs in the Midwest. Teachers, police officers, road workers and others who serve in government do not have the same rights as public employees in other states; in Illinois, they are forced to pay money to a union as a condition of keeping their job.  

“In today’s remarks, Gov. Rauner acknowledged these severe issues that are preventing Illinois from being the economic powerhouse it can be. But even better, he vowed to reform them. 

“We are encouraged that Gov. Rauner plans to back up his bold policy reforms with an aggressive legislative agenda. The Illinois Policy Institute has long supported giving parents more choice and control over where their kids go to school. We have long supported a Right-to-Work law, because it empowers workers. We believe new ideas and innovation should be encouraged, not caught in red tape and excessive regulations. And perhaps most important, government must live within its means the same way we all do at home, and be a good steward of taxpayer dollars.

“We at the Illinois Policy Institute look forward to continuing to fight fiercely to make Illinois an economic beacon and place of prosperity.”

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